Uhuru Torch starts historic climb of Mount Kilimanjaro

Uhuru Torch bearers start an arduous but historic journey to climb Mount Kilimanjaro at Marangu area in Moshi Rural District on Monday. The team is expected to arrive at the Uhuru Peak on Friday (December 9) when the nation will cheer and toast to the climax of 50 years of independence. (Photo by Anna Itenda)

Kilimanjaro Regional Commissioner (RC), Mr Leonidas Gama on Monday wished seven climbers assigned to take the Uhuru Torch to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro a good and safe climb at a short function held at Marangu route and the headquarters of Kilimanjaro National Park.

He told them that the nation has bestowed them a special honour to record an event which will ultimately go to the annals of history.

The RC said the event is a similar feat which was performed by the late Lt. Alexander Nyirenda who hoisted the National Flag on the peak of Kilimanjaro to mark the country’s attainment of political independence some 50 years ago, an event which will be marked on December 9 this year.

“As you begin your historic expedition, suffice to say that we will wish a safe journey up to the Africa’s highest peak, and upon your descent, we will welcome you as among heroes of this country,” he said.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Youth, Culture and Sport, Mr Sethi Kamuhanda, mentioned the Uhuru Torch climbers as Lt. Tanu Mlowezi (TPDF), Lt. Mary Shayo (TPDF), Corporal Lucas Matandiko (TPDF), Ignaus Kapalata (KINAPA), Duke-eli Mwanguku (KINAPA), George Kasembe (TBC) and Ismail Nyyonga (MAELEZO).

By PETER TEMBA, Tanzania Daily News

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